A letter to the editor (albeit in rhyme)

On the Saskatoon Co-op Strike

One hundred and thirty-one days
Is a very long time…
The members are for you
Every step of the way.
We believe in the Co-op
And what you say:
With equal work
Comes equal pay.

You’re out there,
Out in the cold.
Is Grant Wicks listening?
For the truth be told:
Co-op’s workers
Are Co-op gold!

You’re walking the line
For what you believe,
In cold and snow
With little reprieve.
We’re all behind you
For the truth be told:
Co-op’s workers
Are Co-op gold!

Dear Mr. Wicks,
Would you consider
Cutting your salary?
Or would that be bitter?
If you need to save money
There must be a way.
But to a two-tier system
We say nay!
Members support the strikers
For the truth be told:
Co-op’s workers
Are Co-op gold!

Negotiations must
Find a middle ground.
We need negotiators
Honest and sound.
There’s no room for egos,
Personalities and pride.
For the sake of the Co-op
Put that aside.
But a two-tier system
Should never take hold.
Co-op’s workers
Are Co-op gold!

Sara Williams has been a caring Co-op member for almost 40 years. Retired as the horticultural specialist, extension division of the University of Saskatchewan, she is the author of numerous books on gardening in cold climates.